John Preston Manning, age 67, of Marblehead, more recently of Salem, died peacefully at the Essex Park Rehabilitation Center, Beverly on Thursday, January 2, 2014.

Born in Salem, the son of the late Richard F. and Virginia (Preston) Manning and brother of Richard Manning, he was raised and educated in Swampscott. He graduated from Swampscott High School, Class of '65 as Senior Class President. After high school he began what was to become a lifetime career in construction. He partnered with two friends and formed Continental Quality Building and remodeling which flourished for many years serving customers on the North Shore. John finished his working career and retired from Glover Property Management in Marblehead as a lead carpenter/foreman. John was an avid champion cribbage player, frequently challenging his friends at the Gerry 5 and Market Square Associates in Marblehead. He loved riding his Triumph motorcycle and his blue jeep and listening to Rock and Roll and Oldies music and was an avid sports fan. John had a zest for life and an infectious smile.



His Guardian and long time friend, Scott Thibodeau and his wife Kathy of Swampscott survive him along with many close friends, including George Prescott, and brothers David and Fran Peralta of Marblehead

He was pre deceased by his longtime companion Linda Mae Pugh.



A Gathering of friends will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2014 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St, Salem to be followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Friend's of Marblehead's Abandoned Animals, 44 Village St, Marblehead, MA 01945. For online guest book or additional information please call 781-631 8885 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.